Pros: Option of 5-passenger or 7-passenger versions; peppy acceleration in Sport 2.0T models; comfortable, practical interior; standard hill-descent control
Cons: Cramped 3rd-row seat; many desirable options are available only in pricey packages; pricing is steep on Sport models
CG Says: Santa Fe was redesigned for 2013, and in the process gained two versions: the 2-row, 5-passenger, 4-cylinder-powered Santa Fe Sport and the 3-row, 7-passenger, V6 Santa Fe. For 2014 the Santa Fe lineup gains available features such as blind-spot alert, rear-park assist, and ventilated front seats. Good power from both the 4-cylinder and V6 engines; agreeable ride quality; and a comfortable, practical interior are some of the highlights of the Santa Fe family. We also like how refined these crossovers feel and how quiet they are on the road. However, pricing is a bit on the steep side–at least for the Sport–particularly when you add costly option packages. Still, if you’re looking at crossovers or SUVs, be sure to drive the Santa Fe that best approximates your passenger-hauling needs.
